Preventing Wildfires:

A Landowner’s Must-Have Guide

Wildfires are a significant threat to Texas Landowners, damaging property and the environment. Awareness and preparedness are crucial to reducing these risks. This guide offers practical advice on preventing wildfires, including using fire-resistant materials, clearing flammable debris, using vehicle safety practices, and other valuable tips. Implementing these strategies can protect your property and support community wildfire prevention.

1. Utilize Fire-Resistant Building Materials

Choosing the right building materials can significantly prevent wildfires from causing extensive damage to your property. Fire-resistant materials can withstand high temperatures and slow the spread of flames. By incorporating such materials into your structures, you enhance the safety and durability of your buildings. These fire-resistant options include but are not limited to materials like brick, metal roofing, and fiber-cement siding to protect against wildfires. Fire-rated glass for windows and non-combustible materials for decks can also be effective. These choices safeguard your property, enhance its value, and offer peace of mind.

2. Remove Flammable Debris

Removing flammable debris and vegetation from your property is essential for reducing the risk of wildfires. Begin by walking around your property to identify areas with dry leaves, dead plants, and other combustible materials. Focus on cleaning up around your home, sheds, and other structures where debris accumulates. Avoid burning brush and yard waste, especially during dry and windy conditions, as this can quickly lead to an uncontrolled fire. By staying vigilant and routinely clearing away flammable debris, you significantly lower the chances of a wildfire affecting your property.

3. Develop and Maintain Fire Breaks

Creating fire breaks is a practical way to protect your property from wildfires. Fire breaks are cleared areas devoid of vegetation and other flammable materials that act as barriers, slowing down or stopping the spread of fire. Start by identifying the most vulnerable areas around your property, such as boundaries near timber or open fields. Many savvy landowners build fire breaks along their property boundaries, running inside the perimeter fencing.

To build a fire break, remove all vegetation within a specified width, including grass, bushes, and trees. Aim for a minimum width of 10 feet, but wider is better, especially in high-risk areas. Use equipment, such as a skid steer or tractor, to clear the area down to the soil. Regular maintenance is crucial for fire breaks to remain effective. Check these areas periodically, especially before fire season, and remove any new growth or debris that may have accumulated. Checking ensures the fire break remains a reliable barrier against advancing flames.

4. Stay Updated on Burn Bans

Being aware of local burn bans is crucial for preventing wildfires. To stay informed, regularly check local government websites and local fire department social media pages for up-to-date news related to wildfire risks. It’s important to avoid burning trash, leaves, and brush on dry, windy days. Ignoring burn bans can lead to severe consequences, including fines and increased fire risk, so always adhere to local regulations.

5. Safe Vehicle Practices

Vehicles can unintentionally start fires, especially during the dry Texas drought season. Regularly check your vehicle’s exhaust system and towing chains, as both can emit sparks. These sparks can quickly start a destructive fire if they come into contact with dry grass or other flammable materials. Always park on non-flammable surfaces like gravel or pavement when possible. Vehicle tow chains can start a fire if they are dragging on the ground, as the friction from the metal against the road surface can create sparks, which can ignite dry vegetation. Carrying a fire extinguisher in your vehicle is wise, especially if you frequently travel through areas with high fire risk.

6. Ensure Campfire Safety

Campfires can quickly get out of control if not managed properly. To ensure safety, build your campfire at least fifteen feet away from structures, shrubs, trees, or other flammable objects. It’s also essential to avoid areas with low-hanging tree branches. Always keep water and a shovel nearby if the fire spreads. Remember to stay with the fire until it’s entirely out, ensuring it doesn’t reignite. If the fire does get out of control, quickly use water or dirt to extinguish it and call emergency services if necessary.

Summary

With a proactive and dedicated approach, you can build a robust defense against wildfires and safeguard your cherished property. 

Many rural landowners in Texas rely on the remarkable commitment of our Volunteer Fire Departments to protect their homes, farms, and ranches. Take the time to connect with and support your local fire department, ensuring they are well-equipped to combat wildfires effectively. Working together, we can create a safer, more resilient community!

Connect with and follow your local fire department today!

Additional Resources: 

Texas A&M Forest Service – https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/content/landing.aspx?id=19833

US Fire Administration – https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/